Description and usage
The basin was a large copper pot that stood on a copper base. It was used by the priests to wash their hands and feet. It was probably open at the top for filling with water and may have had spouts near the bottom to allow the water to run out. According to EXO 30:18, it stood “between the tent of meeting and the altar” (RSV).
Translation
The priests were commanded to wash their hands and feet before beginning their daily work. This was a ceremonial act of purification for which the basin held the water.
The word “laver,” used by some English translations (for example, RSV and NJPSV), is obscure and communicates little to the average reader. NCV “bowl” is likely to be perceived as something much smaller than its actual size. It is better to say “large bowl” (so CEV) or “large basin.”